Professional Health Blog

Whether it’s your first massage, or you are a regular recipient, there are certain things you can do to ensure you receive maximum benefits and enjoyment.

The idea of getting a massage for the first time can be an intimidating experience. Professional massage therapists understand this. They are trained to make you comfortable and put you at ease. Your ability to relax is crucial. If you are uncomfortable or preoccupied your body will not be able to receive the many benefits of massage.

Arrive on time, or better yet plan to be a little early. If you arrive in a rushed, frenzied state it will take you longer to relax. If you’re late your massage may be cut short.

Try not to eat for a least an hour before your massage. During your massage your body should not have any “work” to do. If your body must work to digest food it will not be able to receive therapeutic benefits as easily.

Turn off your cell phone and pager. Your mind as well as your body should be free of distractions. You do not want to be interrupted just as you’re drifting off into a state of deep relaxation.

Don’t use your massage time to make a mental to-do list, or to worry about your problems. If you allow your mind to let-go during massage, you may come of the table with a fresh outlook and renewed mental clarity providing clear solutions to your problems. If you are bothered by racing thoughts, try focusing on the music or mentally following your therapist’s hands.

Don’t feel like you have to socialize. Professional massage therapists will not make conversation with you unless it has to do with the comfort and outcome of your massage. Likewise, they don’t expect you to entertain them with conversation. Talking can hinder the effects of “feeling” and can inhibit your body from letting go of tension. Many massage therapists prefer it quiet so they can “listen” to your body with their hands.

If you must talk, do so in the first five or ten minutes of the massage. Be sure to let your massage therapist know if the pressure is too hard or too soft, if the room is too hot or to cold, if you don’t like the music, or if your are uncomfortable. The massage therapist can change the environment to suit your needs.

Remember to breathe. If the therapist is on a tender or sore spot, you may tend to hold your breath or tighten your muscles. Both are counter-productive. Take a deep breath and let go. Imagine yourself breathing into the area of discomfort. This will help relax the muscles and relieve tension.

When the massage is over, take your time getting off the table. If you get off too fast you may feel dizzy, lightheaded or disorientated. Drink extra water after the massage, It will help flush the body of toxins that have been released during the massage.

Make your next appointment! The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative. If massage is received on a regular basis, your body will respond quicker and relaxation will be deeper. If possible plan your massage for a time when you don’t have to rush back into a frenzied state of being. Staying in a relaxed state will allow your body and soul to continue absorbing the therapeutic effects for hours after the massage is over.

If you enjoyed this article and would like to learn more about the topic, Please visit VZ BOTANICALS Melanie Vonzabuesnig is the author of Hair Loss in Women…Getting to the Root of the Problem and Aroma Hair…Aromatherapy Formulas for Healthy Hair.

Melanie Vonzabuesnig enjoys writing about aromatherapy, massage and other natural health topics.